EAST LANSING - During his first interview with members of the Michigan State press corps since the second day of training camp, defensive coordinator Pat Narduzzi made a point to single out Jairus Jones and Micajah Reynolds for their high level of play through the first 13 practices.

Jones, a 6-foot-1, 207-pound defensive back who has lettered each of the past two seasons, has emerged as a surprise contender for the starting free safety position. Jones is moving better than he ever. Jones had six interceptions through the first 12 practices in training camp.

Jones is in the picture for a starting job at free safety spot in what has become a four-man competition between the former Tampa (Fla.) Wharton standout, redshirt sophomore Kurtis Drummond, redshirt freshman RJ Williamson, and true freshman Demetrious Cox.

"Jairus is doing a great job," said Narduzzi, who is entering his sixth season as the defensive coordinator at Michigan State. "We are real excited. He has had six picks through 12 practices. We are happy with where he is right now."

Reynolds has spent the past two years moving back and forth between the O-Line and D-Line. But the 6-5, 318-pound former Lansing Sexton standout appears to have finally settled in at defensive tackle.

"Reynolds is having a great camp and nobody is talking about him," Narduzzi said. "Reynolds is really playing well and you never know, which is good. If he isn't getting it done, he can go in. And if he isn't getting it done, he can go in."